Getting out of the contracting business can be harder than starting one.

This commentator was enthused about the roll-up phenomenon when it arose in the mid-90s. I thought it would lead to an industry of more professionally managed companies able to bolster industry fortunes by providing greater employment and training opportunities for pipe trades workers and managers. It also provided a vibrant market for successful contractors wanting to sell their businesses. Instead, the roll-ups turned out to be mostly a tale of Wall Street hustlers making a quick buck and leaving behind once promising organizations in shambles.